Reforestation is one of the most powerful weapons we have in the fight against climate change (even if it alone won't be enough), but manually planting millions of trees is an arduous and time-consuming task. Now, thanks to an innovative biohydro robot called HybriBot, we could have a precious ally in this challenge. Developed by researchers atItalian Institute of Technology (IIT) in collaboration with the University of Freiburg, HybriBot is made of flour and oats and moves autonomously by planting seeds, offering an eco-friendly solution to restore forests and promote biodiversity. How does it work?
Flour, oats and a design inspired by nature
HybriBot is composed of a small capsule created using advanced 3D microfabrication techniques. The capsule is combined with natural oat fruit appendages that react to moisture. When exposed to moisture in the air, these appendages move, causing the capsule to roll and settle into the soil. This movement requires no batteries or external energy sources, relying entirely on natural processes.
The oat appendages rotate and store elastic energy, which they release to move the capsule. This continues until the capsule finds a crack in the ground, where it stops, allowing the seeds inside to germinate. An ingenious design that imitates and exploits the mechanisms of nature to create a functional and sustainable solution. I link the study here.
Successful test with tomato, chicory and epilobium seeds
The researchers successfully tested HybriBot with tomato, chicory and fireweed seeds. Fireweed is particularly beneficial as it is a favorite flower for bees. These tests demonstrated that the seeds can germinate and grow, demonstrating HybriBot's potential for practical use in reforestation and biodiversity protection.
The choice of materials was crucial to ensure that HybriBot has minimal impact on the environment and is safe for wildlife in the event of accidental ingestion. The capsule, made of flour and coated with ethyl cellulose to make it waterproof and stable, weighs just 60 mg, just three times the weight of the natural capsule it imitates. The use of plant-based materials such as flour and oats ensures that HybriBot decomposes naturally, without leaving harmful residues.
A European project for innovation and sustainability
HybriBot was developed within the European i-Seed project, coordinated by Barbara Mazzolai, Associate Director for Robotics at IIT, and of the RAISE (Robotics and AI for Socio-economic Empowerment) innovation ecosystem. The invention represents a significant advancement in bioinspired robotics, combining natural and artificial components to create a functional and sustainable solution to environmental challenges. The project is a clear example of how effective and eco-compatible solutions can be obtained by combining natural processes and technological innovation. Researchers believe HybriBot could play a crucial role in reforesting large areas and protecting biodiversity, addressing some of the most pressing issues related to climate change.
“Oat” biohybrid robot, future prospects for large-scale reforestation
The research team has filed a patent application for HybriBot and further studies are underway to fully explore its potential. With continued development, HybriBot could become a vital tool in global reforestation efforts, helping to restore forests and support diverse ecosystems. Harnessing the power of nature, this biohybrid robot offers a promising avenue in the fight against climate change and the quest for a greener, healthier planet. Imagine it: thousands, perhaps millions of these little robots swarming across desolate landscapes, planting seeds, reviving forests where once there was only barren land. A vision that seems to come out of a utopian novel, but which thanks to HybriBot could become reality.
Now HybriBot will have to be tested on a larger scale, in different environments and conditions. Practical issues such as mass production, distribution and tracking will need to be addressed. I wish him a sincere "good luck": these are the "weapons" we really need. And this biohybrid robot could be one of the most valuable: small, but with big potential to make a difference. Because sometimes, the most innovative solutions arise from the union of simple and natural elements, such as flour, oats and... a pinch of human ingenuity.